Allen: Redskins ‘Might’ Give Tanard Jackson A Chance

TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 16: Defensive back Tanard Jackson #36 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers watches play against the New Orleans Saints October 16, 2011 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Tanard JacksonTanard Jackson "might" be given a chance by the Redskins. (credit: Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images)

ASHBURN, Md. (CBSDC) — The reinstatement of Tanard Jackson will have no bearing on the Washington Redskins draft plans.

Jackson, who hasn’t played in an NFL game since 2011, was suspended indefinitely for violating the league’s substance abuse policy after signing with the Redskins in 2012.

The 28-year-old safety arrived Tuesday morning at Redskins Park but apparently will not meet with team officials, including general manager Bruce Allen, until sometime in the afternoon when his reinstatement is made official.

“When he was suspended we understood that he had to comply with a lot of rules and regulations that the league and players association have agreed to,” said Allen.

The Silver Spring native’s future with the Redskins is uncertain.

“If he meets all of those conditions that the NFL has laid out for him and after meeting with him, we might give him a chance,” Allen said Tuesday.

Despite his long absence, Jackson still has a desire to play, according to Allen.

Jackson started 56 games while recording 10 interceptions and 27 passes defensed during a five-season run with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers that also included two other suspensions.